Presence of Listeria monocytogenes in silage products of Shahrekord city

ObjectiveTo investigate the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in the silage samples.MethodsSilage samples obtained from 150 different farms in Shahrekord city (Iran) and after DNA extraction, all samples were analyzed by PCR technique using one pair of primers for presence of this pathogen. The amplified products were detected on 1.5% agarose gel electrophoresis.ResultsListeria monocytogenes was isolated in 4 (2%) of the 150 samples. The detection of this bacterium from silage samples in Shahrekord city indicated that these products could create a serious risk in public health of animal and human. The findings showed that in positive silage samples for Listeria monocytogenes, the pH value was about five and it was due to bacterial activity in these products.ConclusionsThe quality of silage and hygiene parameters and good herd health management play an important role in the microbiological quality of herd and farm. Considering the high specificity and sensitivity of the employed PCR technique, it is recommended to be useful technique for identification of Listeria monocytogenes.